You apply to Nelson Mandela University online. For the 2027 intake, applications opened on 13 April 2026, and the university used early and late rounds. South African citizens pay no application fee, while international applicants pay R500. Here is how the process works, based on the university's 2027 application guidelines.
Closing dates for 2027
- MBChB, BPharm and Radiography: 30 June 2026
- Early applications for other programmes: 3 August 2026
- Late applications: 30 September 2026
- International applications: 30 September 2026
- All student housing applications: 30 September 2026
Places in some programmes are limited, and a faculty may close a programme once it reaches capacity. So apply in the early round if you can.
The application steps
- Complete the online application, with a first and a second choice.
- Give your own cellphone number, email and postal address, so the university can contact you.
- Upload your documents.
- Once the university processes your application, you receive a student number and PIN.
- Track your status on the Student Admission Tracking dashboard.
Receiving a student number does not mean that you have been accepted, because admission is a separate process.
Documents you need
- A certified copy of your ID, which is compulsory for South African citizens. A birth certificate is accepted while you wait for your ID.
- Your latest school results: Grade 11 final, Grade 12 June or September, or your final results. March results are not accepted.
- A declaration and a copy of the ID of your parent, guardian or surety, if you are a dependant or still at school
- Your full academic record and a certificate of conduct, if you are transferring from another institution
Some programmes need extra documents. For example, Sports Management asks for proof of current sport participation, and Human Movement Sciences and Biokinetics need a medical report. Music programmes need an audition video, and Architectural Design, Interior Design and Visual Arts need a portfolio, followed by an online interview. If you are married, include a copy of your marriage certificate.
Choose two options
The university advises completing both a first and a second choice. This matters because faculties fill their places in order of Applicant Score, so a second choice gives you a better chance of an offer if your first programme fills up. Check the admission requirements for both.
After you apply
Final selection takes place in January 2027, once the final matric results are released. Keep your contact details current, and watch your email and SMS messages for your offer.
Student housing
Apply for student housing by 30 September. If the university offers you a residence place, you pay a residence down-payment before you register. Read more on the Nelson Mandela University fees page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an application fee at Nelson Mandela University?
Not for South African citizens. International applicants pay R500.
When do applications close?
For 2027, health programmes closed on 30 June 2026, early applications on 3 August 2026 and late applications on 30 September 2026.
Does a student number mean I have been accepted?
No. Admission is a separate process, and final selection happens in January.